Jordanians today mark the sixth anniversary of the passing of His Majesty King Hussein and the day His Majesty King Abdullah assumed his constitutional powers.

King Abdullah has continued his father's legacy, placing great emphasis on promoting democratic institutions and political pluralism whilst improving national economy.

For instance, His Majesty King Abdullah last month announced plans to decentralize local government by redrawing provincial administrations that are to be run by publicly elected local councils. Emphasizing that political, social, economic and administrative development is an integrated process, His Majesty's aim was to expand the base of public participation in such a process.

King Hussein, a direct descendant of the Prophet Mohammad, was born on Nov. 14, 1935 as the eldest son of King Talal and Queen Zein Al Sharaf. He was proclaimed King of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan on August 11, 1952. A Regency Council was appointed until King Hussein's formal accession to the throne on May 2, 1953, when he assumed his constitutional powers after reaching the age of eighteen.

Throughout his five-decade rule, the Late King worked hard to raise the living standards of his people. He also struggled tirelessly to promote peace in the Middle East and help the Palestinian people regain their legitimate rights as well as playing a key role in the 1991 Madrid Peace Conference. The Late King's commitment to democracy, civil liberties and human rights helped make Jordan a model state in the region.